Tunnel Trail

The Tunnel Trail is an alternate route to the High Peaks Trail in Pinnacles National Park, creating an opportunity to make a loop when hiking in the heart of the park. The Tunnel Trail splits from the High Peaks Trail at the northern end of the High Peaks region and turns slightly west, heading downhill for about a half-mile to a unique man-made rock tunnel about 50 feet in length. Shortly after the rock tunnel, the Tunnel Trail joins with the upper reaches of the Juniper Canyon trail and climbs for another half-mile to reconnect with the High Peaks Trail at the outhouse located at the southern end of the High Peaks region. Views from the Tunnel Trail extend over the western portion of the park, with the Chaparral Picnic Area and western parking clearly visible. It is also a connecting trail for parties looking to hike across the entire park via either the Condor Gulch or Old Pinnacles trailheads. In addition, several quality rock climbing features are located on the Tunnel Trail, including Proclamation Pinnacle, Chaos Crag, and Tunnel Wall itself. And as part of the High Peaks, the Tunnel Trail is a good spot to catch views of California condors on the wing. Pinnacles National Park is the newest national park in the United States, acquiring this status in 2013 after being originally established as a national monument by Theodore Roosevelt in 1908. The park features dramatic volcanic rock formations including high peaks, caves, and highly-featured walls that are well suited to rock climbing. The peaks rising above the surrounding farms and grasslands host one of the highest densities of prairie falcons in North America as well as reintroduced California condors and a growing population of peregrine falcons. Other local wildlife include coyote, bobcat, California quail, golden eagle, and cougar.